The Waterloo Central School District dedicated its recently refurbished transportation facility to retired bus driver Mr. Dale Buck on Oct. 27. Mr. Buck recently retired from driving buses after 54 years of service to the district and its students.

Mr. D’allah Laffoon, who previously served as transportation supervisor for the district and who worked closely with Buck, pushed for the facility to be dedicated in Buck’s name.

“Mr. [Buck] has been such a pillar in not only the Waterloo community, but in the busing world at large, especially here in the Finger Lakes,” said Mr. Laffoon. “We would hear from parents all the time: ‘I rode with Mr. Buck, my kid is riding with Mr. Buck, my kid's kid is riding with Mr. Buck.’ I’m glad his name can now be associated with the building.”

“Throughout his tenure, Mr. Buck served with unwavering dedication as both a school bus driver and transportation supervisor,” said Mrs. Sarah Cupelli, superintendent of schools at Waterloo CSD. “His commitment to student safety mentorship, driver leadership, and daily operations have made a profound and lasting impact on the district and the Waterloo community. His career reflects the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, and we are so grateful for his five decades of service.”

Mr. Buck was flattered by the dedication and the kind words from community members and district personnel. However, his greatest source of pride is the transportation department’s safety record.

“Our district hasn’t had a serious injury on a school bus since 1963,” said Mr. Buck. “I’m very proud of that fact.”

The transportation facility was recently refurbished as part of the district’s ongoing capital project. Some of the upgrades include a new fuel management system, enhanced draining, and a gate at the entrance to assist with traffic flow.

“None of this would’ve been possible without the dedication of our facilities committee,” said Mr. Lance McFetridge, director of buildings and grounds at Waterloo CSD. “Now that all the work is said and done, the end result is a very nice facility.”

The Waterloo Central School Transportation Department was recognized in 2024 as one of the best school transportation teams in the nation by Transfinder Corps. With their brand-new facility and dedicated personnel, the team plans to continue maintaining its reputation as an award-winning department dedicated to student safety and engagement on its buses.